THIS voluminous history is by the celebrated Sádik Isfahání, and is of high repute in Asia.
Muhammad Sádik says of himself, “that being in the habit from early youth of reading histories, I took the opportunity of abstracting as I went on, and devoted a part of my life solely to produce this work, which I hope will prove as a wise minister to kings, and teach them how to govern their subjects, to conquer their enemies, and to make preparation for war or peace, or for whatever besides which concerns a government. It will be like an experienced tutor to wealthy and learned persons who have to deal with kings; it will also be a faithful friend both to those who lead a public life, and those who prefer retirement, as well as the means of preserving my name in the world. I therefore called this work Subh-i sádik, or ‘Dawn of Day.’”
Book I.—Preface, and Eight chapters. The Pre-Adamites, Prophets, Ancient Kings of Persia, Philosophers, Muhammad, the Khalífs, Imáms, 'Ummayaides, 'Abbásides.
Book II.—Six chapters. The first five respecting the Muhammadan Kings of Persia, Changíz Khán, Tímúr, the Safawí Kings, the Kings of Rúm, Shám, and others. Chapter Six comprises a history of the Muhammadan Kings of India, down to the reign of Sháh Jahán.
Book III.—Twelve chapters. Celebrated men of the first ten centuries. Chapter Twelve relates to the author himself and some of his friends.
Book IV.—Alphabetical list of the names of nations, countries, chief cities, seas, rivers, mountains, islands, etc. This book also gives a geographical account of the world, of the latitude and longitude of the chief cities, of the productions of different countries, and of their manners and customs. This book is in reality only an Alphabetical Index of the preceding three books.
The passages in this work relating to India contain no information not exhibited elsewhere.
Size.—Four volumes in folio.